Ankara, January 16, 2025 – The Europe Today: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan received Asaad al Shaibani, the foreign minister of Syria’s new administration, in Ankara to discuss critical issues surrounding Syria’s reconstruction and territorial integrity, Türkiye’s Communications Directorate announced on Wednesday.
During the meeting, Erdogan emphasized the urgent need to lift international sanctions on Syria, asserting that Türkiye stands ready to address the immediate needs of the “brotherly” Syrian people and assist in rebuilding the war-torn nation. He stressed that terrorist organizations have no place in Syria’s future, underscoring Türkiye’s commitment to the country’s stability.
Discussions also revolved around preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and potential steps to ensure peace and unity. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Director of National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) Ibrahim Kalin, Syria’s Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, and intelligence chief Anas Khattab attended the high-level meeting.
Rebuilding Syria’s Future
Erdogan’s remarks came in the wake of significant political shifts in Syria, where President Bashar Assad, who ruled the country for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia following the fall of Damascus to anti-regime forces on December 8. The collapse of the Baath Party, which had governed Syria since 1963, marks the beginning of a new chapter for the nation.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking at a joint press conference with his Syrian counterpart, called for unity among Syria’s diverse religious, ethnic, and sectarian groups. He reiterated Türkiye’s offer of operational support in combatting the Daesh terror group and announced that Türkiye’s Consulate General in Aleppo would become operational on January 20.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
Asaad al Shaibani hailed the meeting as the start of “a new history” between Syria and Türkiye. He emphasized the importance of Syria’s territorial unity and expressed hope that all territories would be reunited under the central government. He also reassured that Syria’s new administration is committed to ensuring no threats to Türkiye originate from Syrian soil.
The meeting signifies a pivotal step in fostering cooperation between the two nations, with both sides expressing optimism for a peaceful and unified Syria.
